Don’t let a breakdown bring you the bank holiday blues
‘Be prepared’ are the two words being emphasised to bank holiday motorists this month.
With a swift succession of bank holidays lined up in the next few weeks, nearly 8m families are expected to hit the road for weekend breaks and the advice from GEM Motoring Assist is to give your car the once-over or a breakdown could be raining all over your parade.
David Williams MBE, CEO of GEM Motoring Assist, said: “Too often there are drivers who have no breakdown cover whatsoever, meaning they are left in a very tricky situation should something go wrong. Breakdown cover does not have to be expensive; in fact there are lots of great value deals to take advantage of.
“On the spot cover costs double on the first payment so make sure you are always prepared in advance, especially if you are planning on travelling across the country over the bank holidays.”
Slumped
More than 1m drivers do not have breakdown cover, according to research from Santander, risking a bill in excess of £150 if they end up slumped on the hard shoulder.
Gillian Almond, head of current accounts at Santander, said: “With two long weekends so close to each other it’s a great opportunity to get out on the road to visit family and friends or enjoy a driving holiday, but the fun could soon turn to tears if your car breaks down.
“Roadside assistance and lots of other great value benefits like travel insurance and mobile phone cover are included in the Santander accounts, for a monthly fee, which are great value for those who regularly use these services.”
Breakdown cover and road safety organisation GEM Motoring Assist has laid out ten top tips to avoid breaking down in the first place:
- Before you set off on any long journey, check your tyres, battery, oil level, coolant system, windscreen, screenwash, lights, fuel and mirrors
- Watch for changes to the feel of your car and look out for strange noises or smells and investigate
- Plan your journey and have clear directions
- Keep an up-to-date road map in your car or make sure you have a handy Sat Nav to help you
- Check you have up-to-date breakdown membership and don’t forget your card/policy number
- Ensure you have a high visibility jacket/tabard and warning triangle in your boot
- Fully charge your mobile the night before, and for extra safety take an in-car charger
- Even though temperatures are rising, always have warm waterproof clothing
- Make sure you have the manufacturers handbook for your car and don’t ignore warning lights
- Keep a tow rope, first aid kit, torch and spare bulbs in your boot
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